Upcoming Horror Sequels: 'Crawl' and 'Heart Eyes' Announce Release Dates
Entertainment

Upcoming Horror Sequels: 'Crawl' and 'Heart Eyes' Announce Release Dates

authorBy Ta-Nehisi Coates
DateSep 18, 2026
Read Time3 min

Paramount Pictures is gearing up to unleash fresh terrors on the silver screen with confirmed release dates for two major horror sequels. Fans can mark their calendars for the next chapter in the 'Crawl' saga, set to debut in July 2027, and the eagerly awaited 'Heart Eyes 2', which has adjusted its premiere to early 2028. These announcements signal a renewed focus on delivering spine-chilling entertainment to a global audience, promising an exciting future for the horror genre.

The return of critically acclaimed directors and the introduction of compelling new narratives are poised to captivate viewers. The 'Crawl' sequel brings back the original film's visionary director, ensuring a consistent and terrifying experience, while 'Heart Eyes 2' builds on the success of its predecessor, delving deeper into its sinister universe. These strategic releases underscore Paramount's commitment to expanding its horror franchises and catering to the genre's dedicated fanbase.

The Return of 'Crawl' with Mason Gooding and Emily Rudd

The highly anticipated continuation of the 'Crawl' series, featuring Mason Gooding and Emily Rudd in leading roles, is slated for release on July 16, 2027. Alexandre Aja, the original film's director, is once again at the helm, promising to deliver another intense and thrilling chapter. Aja's involvement, coupled with his role as a producer alongside Craig Flores and Sam Raimi, reassures fans of the franchise's commitment to maintaining its signature blend of suspense and creature-feature terror. The screenplay, penned by Jason Harry Pagan, Andrew Deutschman, Alexandre Aja, and Gregory Levasseur, hints at a meticulously crafted narrative that aims to elevate the stakes and explore new dimensions of fear.

The first 'Crawl' film, released in 2019, was a surprise hit at the box office, lauded for its gripping storyline and effective use of suspense. Its success has paved the way for this sequel, which will undoubtedly aim to replicate and even surpass its predecessor's critical and commercial achievements. With Gooding and Rudd joining the cast, the film is expected to bring fresh energy and performances to the terrifying premise of battling killer alligators amidst a hurricane. The production team, including executive producers Gregory Levasseur, Kevan Van Thompson, and Zainab Azizi, is dedicated to crafting a cinematic experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats, further cementing 'Crawl's' legacy within the horror landscape.

'Heart Eyes 2' Shifts Release Date for Early 2028 Debut

The sequel to 'Heart Eyes', dubbed 'Heart Eyes 2', has adjusted its theatrical release, now set to premiere a week earlier on February 4, 2028. This move positions the film to capture a prime viewing window, following its predecessor's successful run. The original 'Heart Eyes' introduced audiences to the chilling Heart Eyes Killer, a deranged antagonist who unleashes terror on Valentine's Day, and the follow-up promises to delve deeper into this horrifying mythology. With Paramount Pictures co-producing and co-financing alongside Spyglass Media Group, and handling worldwide distribution, 'Heart Eyes 2' is poised for a significant global impact.

The first 'Heart Eyes' film, released in 2025, achieved notable box office success, grossing $33 million globally against an $18 million budget. This financial performance underscores the audience's appetite for the franchise's unique blend of slasher horror and thematic elements centered around the holiday of love. The anticipation for 'Heart Eyes 2' is high, as fans eagerly await the return of its iconic villain and the unraveling of new mysteries. The strategic early release date aims to maximize viewership and build on the established momentum, ensuring that the Heart Eyes Killer's return is a memorable event in the horror calendar, delivering another round of scares and thrills.

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